I need some advice...

[MMasztal]

on how to deal with some Arminian fellow teachers; one a uber-pentacostal lay (no formal theological training) male youth pastor and a "God is love" touchy feely female Methodist. They are in charge of our chapel program this year and one of their hot topics is how to teach our students to obtain "crowns" through their Christian service so that we may present them to God when we stand before him. In other words, those with more "crowns" will receive greater rewards in heaven.

I always looked at our good works as a gift from God in order that we may glorify Him, not to obtain crowns to cast at his feet.

Am I wrong to think this way? If not, how should I deal with this?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Tim]

What is the leadership structure of this endeavor? Is this the Chapel that you mention in your signature? Is it Associate Reformed Presbyterian? If so, why Arminian and female teachers? Just asking, so we can clarify to help you better.

 

[Jack K]

If I remember correctly, you teach at a Christian high school, right? And the allowable doctrine there is pretty broad.

It seems a case for applying delicate personal influence rather than looking for an authoritative, top-down solution. So a lot depends on what informal, personal influence you can bring to bear. Are you on good terms with these chapel leaders? Do they respect you personally? Theologically? Have you been supportive of them when possible so that you can now bring up an issue without being seen as a constant complainer? In short, do you have the personal clout that allows you to gently bring this up with them and be heard?

Can you start by gently, respectfully, privately bringing up your concerns. It takes a deft touch, but it's ultimately better for everyone if you can change how these leaders think rather than try to force them to change what they're saying and get pushback. Besides, people like others to approve of them. If you can voice your concern in a way that lets them save face, you may just find them adjusting their chapel program to better meet with your approval.

Change will likely be slow. But pray for it and for your school. And do use what influence you have persuasively but with gentleness. Else you risk getting yourself sidelined for being a jerk.

 

[MMasztal]

What is the leadership structure of this endeavor? Is this the Chapel that you mention in your signature? Is it Associate Reformed Presbyterian? If so, why Arminian and female teachers? Just asking, so we can clarify to help you better.

No, this isn't my church- heaven forbid. I teach at a non-denominational Christian school. My self and one other teacher, a PCA ruling elder, are the only reformed people in the school, most are Calvary Chapel with some Methodists, Baptists and Pentacostals.